Scientific Name
Viola tectiflora W.Becker
Scientific Classification
Family: Violaceae
Subfamily: Violoideae
Tribe: Violeae
Genus: Viola
Etymology
The specific epithet "tectiflora (tek-tih-FLOR-a)" means "hidden flowers" and refers to the flowers covered by overlapping leaves.
Origin
Viola tectiflora is native to Argentina and Chile.
Description
Viola tectiflora is a small, stemless, annual or short-lived perennial belonging to the group of Rosulate Violas. It forms rosettes of semi-succulent, usually purplish-brown leaves with hairy scalloped edges. The rosettes can reach up to 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter. The leaves change color to blend in with their backgrounds.
The flowers are white, tinged with pink, and appear from spring to early summer.
How to Grow and Care for Viola tectiflora
Rosulate Violas have a reputation for being difficult to keep alive. Therefore, cold conditions, soil containing adequate nutrients, and as much light as possible are essential.
Soil: They grow in relatively bare, loose soils, often volcanic in origin.
Hardiness: Viola tectiflora can withstand temperatures as low as 0 to 50 °F (-17.8 to 10 °C), USDA hardiness zones 7a to 11b.
Propagation: Rosulate Violas are grown only from seed and with some patience.
The main problem with these plants is etiolation, caused by a lack of light, which results in the elongation of the compact rosettes. However, it is known that some of the seedlings will quickly etiolate while others will not. So, there is some scope in selecting Rosulate Violas that are more likely to grow satisfactorily in cultivation.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Rosulate Violas.
Toxicity of Viola tectiflora
Violas are nontoxic for humans and pets. Both the flowers and leaves are edible, fresh, cooked, or dried.
Links
- Back to genus Viola
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
